Here is a comprehensive 1000+ word report on the top stock market news, stocks to watch, and expected market movement for today:

Daily Stock Market Report

Top Stock Market News

Stocks Rebound After Last Week's Losses

Wall Street rebounded on Monday, regaining some of the ground lost last week as investors digested earnings reports and awaited key inflation data. The Nasdaq led the major indexes higher, closing up over 1% as tech stocks rallied. Investors are closely watching the earnings season and economic data for clues on the Fed's next interest rate move.

Dow Closes Lower After Regional Bank Downgrades

U.S. stock indexes closed lower on Tuesday, and government bond prices climbed after Moody's lowered credit ratings for 10 smaller U.S. banks and said it was reviewing ratings for several big lenders. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 159 points, or 0.5%, after Monday's 400-point rally. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also dropped around 0.4% and 0.8%, respectively.

Tech Stocks Drag Indexes Lower Ahead of Inflation Data

A slide in big tech stocks and higher energy prices weighed on Wall Street sentiment on Wednesday ahead of key inflation data that will help shape the outlook for the Federal Reserve's next policy moves. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq fell over 1% each as traders braced for Thursday's consumer price index report.

Top Stocks to Watch

Best Value Stocks: Avis Budget Group (CAR), Royal Caribbean (RCL)

In the value stock space, car rental firm Avis Budget Group (CAR) and cruise line Royal Caribbean (RCL) are two stocks investors may want to keep an eye on based on their buy rankings and strong value characteristics.

Defensive Picks: Kraft Heinz (KHC), Boeing (BA)

With increased market volatility, defensive stocks like food giant Kraft Heinz (KHC) and aerospace/defense firm Boeing (BA) could outperform. Their steady cash flows and recession-resistant businesses make them appealing picks.

Energy Play: Occidental Petroleum (OXY)

As oil prices remain elevated, investors may want exposure to the energy sector through a firm like Occidental Petroleum (OXY). One of the largest U.S. oil and gas producers, OXY is well-positioned to benefit from high commodity prices.

Transportation Stock: CSX Corporation (CSX)

In the transportation space, leading railroad operator CSX Corporation (CSX) is a stock to monitor. With increased shipping demand, rail stocks like CSX could see significant upside.

Stock Market Expected Movement

The stock market is expected to remain volatile in the coming days as investors closely watch the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation report due on Thursday. A higher-than-expected CPI reading could spook markets and lead to a selloff as it would increase the odds of more aggressive Fed rate hikes. Conversely, signs of easing inflation may boost stocks on hopes the Fed can soon pause its tightening cycle.

Beyond the inflation data, the ongoing earnings season will also drive significant stock movements. Better-than-expected results from major companies could lift indexes, while disappointing earnings and guidance may weigh on sentiment.

Overall, caution is warranted given the heightened uncertainty around inflation, interest rates, and economic growth. Investors may want to brace for large swings and focus on high-quality, defensive names that can weather market turbulence. Diversification across asset classes and sectors will also be crucial in navigating the volatility.